There’s no question that music has the power to affect our moods and thoughts. It can make us feel happy, sad, motivated, or inspired – and sometimes all at once! In light of that, it’s no surprise that there are so many great songs about thinking.
Whether you’re looking for something to reflect on your own thoughts or just want to feel inspired, these songs will do the trick. From John Lennon’s “Imagine” to Macklemore’s “Thrift Shop,” these tunes will have you thinking (and feeling) deep.
So, without further ado, here are the 20 best songs about thinking:
By the way, if you’re a fan of songs about thinking, you might also want to check out songs about monkeys, songs about piano, songs about power, songs about signs, and songs about strawberries.Thinking Out Loud – Ed Sheeran
Ed Sheeran’s “Thinking Out Loud” is a song about the power of positive thinking. The lyrics encourage listeners to stay positive and believe in themselves, even when things are tough. The song also stresses the importance of taking risks and putting yourself out there. Throughout the song, Sheeran uses powerful imagery to illustrate his points. “Thinking Out Loud” is an uplifting and motivational song that is sure to leave listeners feeling inspired.
Think For Yourself – The Beatles
The song “Think For Yourself” by The Beatles is a song about the power of independent thought. The lyrics encourage listeners to question authority and to think for themselves, rather than blindly following the crowd. The song was penned by George Harrison, and it is widely considered to be one of his best compositions. “Think For Yourself” was released on The Beatles’ 1966 album “Revolver,” and it remains one of the band’s most popular songs. The message of the song is as relevant today as it was when it was first released, and it continues to inspire people to think for themselves and to stand up for what they believe in.
Thinking Of You – Lenny Kravitz
“Thinking of You” is a song by American rock musician Lenny Kravitz, released as the fourth single from his 1991 album Mama Said. The song was written by Kravitz and produced by Bruce Witkin. “Thinking of You” is a ballad driven by piano and strings. The lyrics to the song are about a relationship that ended before it had a chance to begin. Kravitz has said that the song is about “unfinished business” and “what could have been.” In an interview with Musician magazine, Kravitz said: “That’s a song about somebody that you were with for a minute and it didn’t work out. You always wonder what would have happened if you had stayed together.” “Thinking of You” was released as a single in 1991 and peaked at number 33 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart. The music video for the song features Kravitz playing the piano in an empty room.
Wishful Thinkin’ – Sly & The Family Stone
Sly and the Family Stone’s “Wishful Thinkin'” is a song about the power of positive thinking. The lyrics encourage listeners to believe in themselves and their ability to achieve their goals. Despite the challenges that life may bring, the song insists that “wishful thinkin'” can help people overcome any obstacle. The upbeat tempo and optimistic message of the song make it an uplifting listen, and its message of self-belief is sure to inspire anyone who hears it. Whether you’re facing a difficult situation or simply need a pick-me-up, “Wishful Thinkin'” is the perfect song to give you a boost of confidence.
Thinking About You – Calvin Harris
“Thinking About You” is a song by Scottish DJ and producer Calvin Harris. It was released as the second single from his third studio album, 18 Months (2012). The song features vocals from English singer Ayah Marar. The song peaked at number eight on the UK Singles Chart and number nine on the US Billboard Hot 100.
The song was written by Harris, Marar, and British DJ and producer Nile Rodgers. In an interview with Digital Spy, Harris explained that he wrote the song about “thinking about someone you shouldn’t be thinking about.” He also said that he particularly liked the line “I know exactly what I should do/ But I just can’t stop thinking about you.”
Thinking About You – Norah Jones
The song “Thinking About You” by Norah Jones is a beautiful ballad about the feeling of being deeply in love. The lyrics convey a sense of deep emotion and longing, and the melody is both haunting and sweet. The song reflects on the idea of always thinking about one’s loved one, even when they are far away. It is a beautiful expression of love and longing and is sure to resonate with anyone who has ever been deeply in love.
Thinking Bout You – Ariana Grande
“Thinking Bout You” is a song by Ariana Grande that was released on March 14th, 2019. The song is about thinking about someone and missing them. The lyrics talk about how the person is always on her mind and she can’t stop thinking about them. The song has a mellow and slow beat which gives it a somber feeling. The lyrics are very relatable and many people have said that they can relate to the feeling of missing someone. Overall, the song is a beautiful ballad with relatable lyrics and a slow melody.
Think – Aretha Franklin
Released in 1972, “Think” is a song written by Aretha Franklin that reached number one on the Billboard Hot 100 chart. The song is an anthem of female empowerment, with Franklin urging women to take control of their lives and think for themselves. The blunt, assertive lyrics are set to a catchy funk groove, making “Think” one of Franklin’s most iconic and timeless hits. Though it was released nearly 50 years ago, the song’s message is still relevant today, and it continues to inspire and empower listeners around the world.
Thinking – NF
NF’s song “Thinking” is a moving reflection on the power of thinking. The song begins with the lines “I think about all of the things that I could’ve been/And all of the places I could’ve seen.” These lines speak to the regret that comes with not having pursued one’s dreams. However, the song quickly shifts gears, with NF declaring that “I’m not gonna live in what could’ve been.” This shift reflects NF’s resolve to move forward, despite his regrets. The chorus of the song is a powerful reminder that thoughts can have a profound impact on our lives. As NF states, “Thinking too much about things that don’t matter/It’s like poison in my veins.” By highlighting the destructive power of negative thinking, “Thinking” serves as a valuable reminder to focus on the positive.
Thinkin Bout You – Bonded
“Thinkin Bout You” is a song by the American R&B group Bonded. The song was released as the lead single from their self-titled debut album in 1992. “Thinkin Bout You” is a slow ballad, with lyrics that reflect on the emotions associated with thinking about someone you care for. The song peaked at number six on the Billboard Hot 100 chart, making it the group’s highest-charting single. “Thinkin Bout You” has been covered by several artists, including Justin Bieber and Kelly Clarkson. The song has also been featured in numerous films and television shows.
You’ll Think Of Me – Keith Urban
Keith Urban’s “You’ll Think of Me” is a heartwarming ballad about the power of memories. The song begins with Urban reflecting on a past relationship, and how even though it didn’t work out, he still thinks fondly of his former partner. He goes on to say that even though they’re no longer together, he knows that she’ll always think of him when she hears certain songs or sees certain places. The song then takes on a more upbeat tone as Urban expresses confidence that his ex will eventually find happiness and love again. However, he concludes by saying that he’ll always be there for her if she ever needs a friend. “You’ll Think of Me” is a beautiful testament to the lasting impact of memories and the importance of continuing to care for one another even after a relationship has ended.
Thinking Of You – Katy Perry
Katy Perry’s “Thinking of You” is a song about the power of thoughts and how they can affect our lives. The lyrics describe a scenario in which a person is thinking about someone they love and how those thoughts are influencing their emotions. Perry sings about how “every thought I think is of you,” and how those thoughts are always making her feel happy and loved. The song is ultimately about the importance of positive thinking, and how our thoughts can shape our reality. Perry’s message is that thoughts are powerful things, and if we focus on thinking about the people we love, we will eventually start to feel more love in our lives. “Thinking of You” is a beautiful song that reminds us of the importance of our thoughts and how they can impact our lives.
What Was I Thinkin’ – Dierks Bentley
Dierks Bentley’s “What Was I Thinkin'” is a song about the consequences of not thinking things through. The narrator tells the story of a man who impulsively decides to leave his small town life behind and head out west. He quickly realizes that he’s in over his head, and regrets his decision. The song speaks to the importance of taking the time to think things through before making a decision. It’s a simple message, but one that we all need to be reminded of from time to time. We live in a world where we’re constantly bombarded with choices, and it can be easy to get caught up in the moment and make a decision without thinking it through.
I Think We’re Alone Now – Tiffany
In 1987, Tiffany released her cover of the 1966 song “I Think We’re Alone Now”. The song became a massive hit, reaching number one on the Billboard Hot 100 chart. The song is about a young girl’s infatuation with a boy who she thinks is her only love. However, as the lyrics progress, it becomes clear that the girl is actually in love with the idea of being in love. She is content to be alone with her thoughts of the boy, and she does not seem to care that he does not reciprocate her feelings. In many ways, the song captures the experience of young love: it is full of hope and longing, but it is ultimately unrequited.
Think For A Minute – The Housemartins
“Think for a Minute” is a song by the British band The Housemartins. It was released in 1986 as the second single from their album London 0 Hull 4. The song peaked at number four on the UK Singles Chart. The song is about the importance of thinking for oneself and not blindly following others. The lyrics encourage the listener to question authority and to think for themselves. The song has been lauded for its positive message and catchy melody. In recent years, it has been used in a number of advertising campaigns, including one for the UK’s National Health Service. “Think for a Minute” is an important song that reminds us of the importance of thinking for ourselves.
Gonna Change My Way Of Thinking – Bob Dylan
In the song “Gonna Change My Way of Thinking,” Bob Dylan sings about the power of positive thinking. He starts by acknowledging that negative thoughts can be harmful, describing how they can “poison your soul.” However, he goes on to say that it is possible to choose to think differently. By changing the way we think, we can change our lives for the better. The chorus of the song emphasizes this point, proclaiming that “I’m gonna change my way of thinking/Make myself a better man/I’m gonna change my way of thinking/Make myself a better man.”
I Think We’re Alone Now – Tommy James & The Shondells
Released in 1967, “I Think We’re Alone Now” was written by Ritchie Cordell and recorded by Tommy James and the Shondells. The song is about two young people who are content being alone together, without interference from parents or other people. The lyrics convey a sense of independence and defiance, with the couple proclaiming that they “don’t want nobody else.” Despite its relatively simple message, the song resonated with many young people at the time, who were eager to assert their independence. The song reached number four on the Billboard Hot 100 chart and has since been covered by a number of artists, including Tiffany, who took the song to number one in 1987. Today, “I Think We’re Alone Now” remains an anthem for those who cherish their alone time.
You Think You’re A Man – Divine
“You Think You’re a Man” is a 1984 single by the American singer and drag queen Divine. The song is based on the 1968 hit “You Think You’re a Man” by Sergio Mendes, and tells the story of a man who believes he is better than everyone else. Divine originally recorded the song for the film Polyester, but it was later released as a single. The song became a club hit, and Divine toured internationally to promote it. In addition to its popularity in clubs, the song has also been used in many films and television shows.
Think Too Much – Paul Simon
In the song “Think Too Much” by Paul Simon, the narrator reflects on how his excessive worrying and overthinking have led to him feeling isolated and alone. The song begins with the line “I think too much, I worry too much / I’m so full of fear,” which sets the tone for the rest of the song. The narrator goes on to describe how his constant worrying has caused him to lose sleep, miss out on social events, and distance himself from others.
That’s Why I’m Thinking Of You – The J. Geils Band
That’s Why I’m Thinking Of You by The J. Geils Band is a song about thinking. The lyrics talk about how the protagonist is thinking about the person they love, even when they’re not around. The song reflects on how thoughts can be powerful, and how they can connect people even when they’re apart. The J. Geils Band was a 1970s rock band from Massachusetts, and That’s Why I’m Thinking Of You was released as part of their sixth studio album, Blow Your Face Out. The song was a moderate success, reaching #48 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart. However, it has since become a cult classic and is often considered one of the band’s best songs.
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